in these reserves under three sets of conditions: 



1. Uncut stands 



2. Normal light selection cut 



3. Experimentally treated stands. 



To date the measurements and observations indicate definite advantages 

 of this silvicultural treatment with respect to yellow birch germination, survival 

 and height growth. 



The location of the two experimental reserves has brought to light an 

 important factor that effects birch regeneration, namely deer browse. Both the 

 reserves inside and outside Algonquin Park supported large numbers of yellow 

 birch seedlings after treatment, but the regeneration at Swan Lake within the 

 park has been seriously damaged by the high deer population. In contrast to 

 this, the reserve at Crozier Lake is subjected to normal hunting pressure and 

 the birch seedlings are well on their way toward establishment. 



The deer browse study, mentioned in last year's report, has been taken 

 over by the wildlife section of the Division of Research, and it is expected that 

 this phase of the work will be reported by that section. - 



The work on direct site measurements was continued during the summer 

 and winter of 1955-56. Air and soil temperatures, relative humidity, and other 

 factors are being recorded. 



The work carried out toward the development of a birch seed orchard 

 was continued this year. Scions were collected during the winter logging 

 operations in 1955, and were grafted at Angus for planting at Swan Lake. 



The birch root and soil temperature studies, carried out by the 

 Laboratory of Forest Pathology and research office, were continued and ex- 

 panded this year at Swan Lake. 



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